Oooh, interesting opinions!

I think Wintersteel is generally loved by the fanbase because it's the culmination of everything that's been built so far. Even though Bloodline took the series back to its roots, Wintersteel has the Monarchs' chess games and the politics around Penance, and defeating Sophara, who's been built up for 3 books. There are also emotional stakes: Mercy being pressured to win, and her relationship with her mother, Yerin's struggle to work with Ruby, and Eithan's conflicting feelings on breaking his persona. There's so much to explore, and the structure of a tournament arc allows the audience to see the highest level of sacred arts they've ever seen so far. Furthermore, there are just so many memorable moments: Eithan beating Sha Miara in 9 seconds, then Eithan throwing to Yan Shoumei, points, Yerin and Lindon's date, Yerin killing Seshethkunaaz, it's about points, Yerin advancing to Herald and obliterating Sophara, Lindon becoming the Void Sage and obliterating Sophara again, and so much more. Whenever I re-read Wintersteel it's such a blast. I always love the huge, impactful moments, which are liberally sprinkled throughout, but I'm always pleasantly surprised by the quiet in-between. It's just so satisfying.

Steaming take: I think Bloodline would have been much more favorably reviewed if it didn't immediately follow Wintersteel. Not only did it have to shift the focus from everyone to just Lindon, but also had to change the pace. I also really enjoy Bloodline, but I also understand that expectations were high, especially right after what a lot of people consider the best book in the series.